Problem Gambling Directory of Services

Saskatchewan Problem Gambling Helpline (SPGH) at 1-800-306-6789 or visit Saskatchewan Problem Gambling Helpline (SPGH).

The SPGH is a 24-hour helpline for to people and/or their families, who are experiencing problems related to gambling. Callers receive confidential, professional service from trained counsellors, free of charge. Texting options are available at 306-400-2785 seven days a week from 12:30 to 17:30. The helpline provides: information, short-term counselling, crisis intervention services, and referrals to Saskatchewan Health Authority counsellors and self-help groups.

Problem Gambling counsellors help people with problems related to their gambling and its impacts. Experienced counsellors provide services in out-patient settings, free of charge to Saskatchewan residents.

Problem Gambling Counsellor Directory

Services are available in health regions across the province through the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Find a counsellor near you or visit the Saskatchewan Problem Gambling Helpline. Rapid Access brief therapy is also available.

What to expect when you ask for help

• Set up an appointment by calling the counsellor. You do not need a physician's referral. A person who is depressed or suicidal should state the urgency when arranging to talk to a counsellor.
• One-on-one sessions usually last an hour, but can last longer. Information shared during the session is confidential.
• At the first meeting, the counsellor will ask questions about the person's situation and will assist with urgent, immediate issues first. This might include:
  • helping the person determine ways to limit spending and access to money;
  • discussing ways to avoid gambling venues; and
  • dealing with urgent emotional, family, legal, work or school issues.
• The counsellor may recommend a plan of action that includes a certain number of sessions and topics for discussion. These topics may include:
  • managing finances;
  • stress reduction;
  • family and personal communication skills;
  • recreational activities other than gambling; and
  • how to avoid "triggers" to gambling.
• Gamblers Anonymous may be suggested, as it is a free self-help service for the person who has a gambling issue, for a friend or for a family member. 
• The counsellor may suggest other professional resources to assist with areas such as legal problems, financial crisis or severe depression.
• Individuals seeking assistance are free to accept or reject the recommendations of counsellors and to suggest other ideas that might be effective.

Gamblers Anonymous provides a supportive environments to share experiences with people going through similar issues, whether you are the person with a problem gambling issue, a friend or family member. It is an organization that has local meetings across Saskatchewan. It provides a supportive environment to discuss the 12 steps to recovery and to share experiences with others who are going through similar issues. For more information, visit Gamblers Anonymous Saskatchewan.

Additional Resources

• Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addictions (CCSA) - Lower-Risk Gambling Guidelines and infographic/poster
• Canadian Mental Health Association - Gambling Awareness Program information and provincial resources
• Saskatchewan Problem Gambling Helpline resources
• Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority - Responsible Gambling information
• Statistics Canada data on who gambles and who experiences gambling problems in Canada